Barcelona consider between Rafael Leao and Marcus Rashford

Barcelona are facing a crucial decision on the left wing: continue pursuing Rafael Leao as a long-term option, or buy Marcus Rashford – who has been outstanding on loan. According to Diario Sport (quoting ESPN), the final choice may depend directly on Rashford's future.

The key question: spend big on Leao or buy Rashford outright?

Leao, 26, is seen by Barcelona as a potential long-term attacking option. The Catalan club failed to make a move for him last summer, but his current form has forced them to reconsider. The obstacle remains: finances. AC Milan are said to not negotiate below €80m, while his release clause is set at €150m.

On the other hand, Rashford – who is playing for Barcelona on loan from Manchester United – has made a strong impression on the left wing. His good form makes the option of buying him outright more feasible in terms of budget. The source emphasized: if Barca signs a long-term contract with Rashford, the door to recruiting Leao will almost be closed.

Leao: long-term solution, huge cost

According to Diario Sport (via ESPN), after overcoming an early season injury, Leao has regained his rhythm and exploded again: scoring 3 goals in his last 4 appearances in Serie A. That is a sign of the long-term value that Barcelona is pursuing - but also means huge financial pressure if they want to realize the deal.

AC Milan's asking price (≥80 million euros) and release clause of 150 million euros show that the Portuguese star is not an easy target to approach, especially in the context of Barca tightening spending.

Rashford: instant impact and budget-friendly

Rashford is making a clear impact on the left flank during his loan period. His good adaptation to the new environment is the basis for Barca to consider a long-term contract. In terms of cost structure, buying Rashford outright is considered more feasible than spending a lot on Leao.

More importantly, the Rashford option gives Barcelona an immediate level of certainty in a position that has needed consistency in recent game time.

Tactical angle: lock left wing position and continuity

Barcelona’s problem is on the left flank – where a reliable attacking fulcrum is needed. Leao represents a long-term project with sustainable expectations, while Rashford brings immediate results as he has proven his impact in the current squad. Choosing who will determine the trajectory of the attack in the coming time.

By locking in the future on the left wing, Barca also resolves the chain of consequences of personnel rotation and defines the roles of the remaining strikers. Therefore, this decision has an impact beyond the scope of a single contract.

Notable numbers

• 3 goals in Rafael Leao's last 4 Serie A games (after overcoming an early season injury).
• AC Milan are not negotiating for less than 80 million euros; Leao's release clause is 150 million euros.
• Leao is 26 years old; Rashford is playing for Barcelona on loan from Manchester United.

The deciding variable: Rashford's future

The source confirmed that Barcelona's final option depends largely on whether or not to buy Rashford outright. If this option is activated, the Leao deal is likely to stop. Conversely, if they cannot reach an agreement with Rashford, Barca will have to return to the negotiating table with AC Milan under more stringent financial conditions.

Long-term impacts

This is a crucial turning point for Barcelona's attack path: either spend a huge amount of money on a long-term target like Leao, or invest in a player who is shining right now at Camp Nou in Rashford. Whichever way you choose, the decision will shape Barca's financial structure and personnel map for the near future.